Cost:
Fellows receive a salary and benefit package from the department/agency to which they are assigned. Compensation is commensurate with the federal pay grade GS-14, step 3. Currently, most White House Fellows require full-time equivalent (FTE) positions and therefore, may count against department or agency hiring ceilings. Changes regarding FTE position requirements, however, are under discussion. The Commission, participating departments and agencies and prospective fellows consult to determine job assignments.

Internship Period(s):
These fellowships begin on September 1, and end on August 31. Fellowships are
for one year.

Application Deadline:

The application deadline for candidates is February 1. By May of each year, all departments/agencies desiring to participate in the White House Fellows Program must express their intent to the Commission.

Geographic Availability:WHF Fellowships are all in Washington, DC.

Selection Process:
To be eligible, applicants must: be a U.S. citizen. They may not be a current Federal government employee ( with the exception of career military personnel), nor may they hold an official state or local office during their fellowship year. While there are no formal educational requirements or age restrictions, the fellowship program seeks to provide young men and women with Federal government experience early in their careers. Applicants must submit: a completed application form; index cards with specified information; three to five references; and numerous essays. The selection process is multilayered. First, all completed applications are reviewed by the alumni of the White House Fellows Program in order to select candidates for interviews. Selection is based on a remarkable record of achievement early in their career. Applicants must have the skills to serve at the highest levels of government, show leadership potential and have a demonstrated commitment to public service. Second, based on interviews with panels of prominent citizens from across the county, candidates are selected to be national finalists. Third, national finalists undergo comprehensive background investigations for security clearance purposes. Finally, all national finalists are interviewed by members of the President’s Commission on White House Fellowships. Thereafter, the Commission makes fellowship recommendations to the President. The Commission only recommends 11 to 19 fellows per year.

Orientation Session/Training:
The White House Fellowship Program includes an Education Program. As part of the Education Program, fellows meet with leaders in fields in and outside their respective job assignments, and they travel to other U.S. cities, domestic military bases and foreign countries to participate in public policy discussions.